Mississippi 2022 Regular Session

Mississippi House Bill HB818

Introduced
1/17/22  
Refer
1/17/22  
Engrossed
2/9/22  
Refer
2/11/22  

Caption

MS Computer Science and Cyber Education Equality Act; authorize certified or classified staff to provide instruction under.

Impact

The bill has a wide-ranging impact on state laws pertaining to education by incorporating computer science into the K-12 curriculum framework. Specifically, it outlines the responsibilities of local school districts to ensure that students receive adequate instruction in computer science starting at the elementary level and continuing through high school. By mandating that a certain percentage of high schools and middle schools offer computer science courses, the bill seeks to standardize education in this critical subject across all educational institutions within the state.

Summary

House Bill 818 aims to enhance computer science education in Mississippi by amending existing laws to allow both certified and classified staff to provide instruction in computer science in public schools. The bill emphasizes the importance of computer science education for K-12 students and instructs the State Department of Education to implement a comprehensive curriculum that meets educational standards. It also highlights the necessity of designating central locations within school districts to deliver these computer science courses, thereby fostering an organized approach to training educators and students alike.

Sentiment

The overall sentiment surrounding HB 818 appears to be positive, as it aims to address the growing demand for computer literacy and technical skills in the workforce. Supporters of the bill, including educators and technology advocates, argue that expanding computer science education is crucial for preparing the future workforce. It reflects a proactive approach to meeting both educational and economic needs in the state, emphasizing the role of technology in modern education.

Contention

While the bill enjoys broad support, there may be some contention around the practical implementation of its provisions. Concerns could arise regarding the availability of trained staff to deliver the computer science curriculum effectively, as well as securing adequate funding for training programs and resources. Additionally, the logistics of establishing centralized locations for instruction could face challenges, particularly in more rural or underserved areas, potentially raising questions about equitable access to computer science education.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

MS SB2586

Computer science curriculum; clarify terminology to specify who may provide instruction in.

MS HB208

Computer science curriculum; clarify terminology to specify who may provide instruction in.

MS SB2535

MS Future Innovators Act; enact to require high-school computer science or CTE with embedded computer science course.

MS HF253

A bill for an act relating to computer science instruction, including by modifying provisions related to the graduation requirements, the computer science instruction provided by students enrolled in grades nine through twelve, computer science instruction endorsements and authorizations issued by the board of educational examiners, and the computer science professional development incentive fund.

MS HB487

Quality Basic Education Act; computer science course shall be a high school graduation requirement beginning in 2031; provide

MS H0483

Computer Science Education

MS HF759

Computer science education advancement provided, rulemaking authorized, and money appropriated.

MS SB249

"Quality Basic Education Act,"; beginning in the 2031-2032 school year, a computer science course shall be a high school graduation requirement; provide

MS SF2332

A bill for an act relating to computer science instruction, including by modifying provisions related to the graduation requirements, the computer science instruction provided to students enrolled in grades nine through twelve, computer science instruction endorsements and authorizations issued by the board of educational examiners, and the computer science professional development incentive fund.(Formerly SSB 3171.)

MS SSB3171

A bill for an act relating to computer science instruction, including by modifying provisions related to the graduation requirements, the computer science instruction provided to students enrolled in grades nine through twelve, computer science instruction endorsements and authorizations issued by the board of educational examiners, and the computer science professional development incentive fund.(See SF 2332.)

Similar Bills

MS HB1191

Districts of Innovation; bring forward.

MS HB1192

Virtual public schools; authorize operation by certain educational providers or locally sponsored virtual public schools.

MS HB1228

Community schools; authorize implementation under the administration of a district innovation.

MS HB591

Community schools; authorize implementation under the administration of a District Innovation.

MS HB574

Community schools; authorize implementation under the administration of a district of innovation and to establish a grant fund.

MS HB1398

Community school; authorize implementation under the administration of a district of innovation and establish grant fund.

MS SB2586

Computer science curriculum; clarify terminology to specify who may provide instruction in.

MS HB208

Computer science curriculum; clarify terminology to specify who may provide instruction in.